Fothergill Island

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Fothergill Island is located in the Matusadona National Park and re-opened on the 1st of August 2021 after an extensive refurbishment program and aims to maintain the rich traditions and history of the island. The original Fothergill Island Resort was built back in 1977 and was named after Rupert Fothergill, who was the chief game ranger in charge of rescuing and translocating the wild animals stranded on islands caused by the rising flood waters of the newly built Kariba Dam.

The newly built Fothergill Island accommodation is completely different to the original buildings, with the theme of this luxury tented camp being to inspire relaxation in a very comfortable environment – you will want for nothing! The main entertainment area for the Lake and Bush Suites is made up of FOUR different sections, varying from sitting areas, to a library, bar, dining and pool areas. This ensures that you have the space and choice to mingle or not, just as you desire. The lsland Suite area has its very own pool with lounge and dining area, specifically built for those wanting a more private experience.

The décor of the entire camp is modern but subtle, with pastel colour tones of olive greens, lily pinks, turquoise blues and chic yellow hues cleverly blending in and out of one another. The inspiring design is a celebration of sustainability. Ninety-five percent of the islands extensive energy requirements come from solar energy with guests being invited to take a guided tour of their enormous solar plant. Fothergill Island was built with the belief that “the world does not have the time for average” and the lodge aims to provide a truly unique luxury safari and fishing experience for all their guests, that includes strong environmental and philanthropic credentials as well as their custodial sense of protection and a clear understanding of the urgency and need to protect precious ecosystems and the life they support for future generations.

The entire perimeter of the property is surrounded by an electric fence, making it safe to walk to and from the rooms without having to worry about wild animals (please note the swimming and splash pools do NOT have covers for those with small children). All water in the camp has been filtered and guests are able to drink from any tap. There is a central safe for valuables guests would prefer to have locked up.

The Matusadona National Park where the island is located is well known for its flood plains with the mountains of the Matusadona National Park which hold a diverse selection of plains game and predators, which you are able to experience by foot, on vehicles or boats. Fishing fanatics won’t be disappointed in the variety of sport fishing available too. So whether you want a relaxing holiday in camp by your own private splash pool, a packed safari adventures with game walks and drives or the ultimate fishing holiday – Fothergill Island has it all and in beautifully tranquil and lavish environs.

LOCATION

Matusadona National Park Airstrip – Fothergill Island Airstrip

GPS Co-ordinates

S16°42’06.06”

E28°39’57.80”

ACCOMMODATION

Lake and Bush Suites

5 suites – each can be converted to double or twin room

  • 115sqm (1,200 square feet)
  • All en-suite
  • 4 suites have showers only
  • 1 suite has bath and shower
  • Mosquito nets
  • Writing desk
  • Private lounge
  • Minibar
  • Tea and coffee station
  • Out doors eating and plunge pool
  • International charging station

Lake and Bush Family Suites

2 suites – each has 2 separate bedrooms both en-suite with lounge in the middle

  • 160sqm (1,700 square feet)
  • All rooms en-suite
  • All suites have showers
  • Mosquito nets
  • A writing desk
  • Private lounge
  • Minibar
  • Tea and coffee station
  • Out doors eating and plunge pool
  • Charging station

The Island Suites

3 suites – each can be converted to double or twin room

  • All en-suite
  • 2 suites have showers only
  • 1 suite has shower and bath
  • Mosquito nets
  • A writing desk
  • Private lounge
  • Minibar
  • Tea and coffee station
  • Shared pool in the main dining area

ACTIVITIES FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN

  • Game drives
  • Bush walks (minimum age 16 years)
  • Trail walks (minimum age 5 years)
  • Fishing
  • Birdwatching
  • Board games
  • Star gazing
  • Swimming
  • Archery

INCLUDES

  • Accommodation in the Lake, Bush or Island Suites
  • A dedicated and talented team of staff members.
  • All meals and drinks, including Fothergill’s selection of wines, spirits, champagnes and cocktails.
  • All activities and facilities, including:
    • All game drives, walks and safari experiences.
    • All fishing, boat and water based experiences (including full use of all fishing equipment)
    • All camp games and activities
  • Wi-Fi (limited to the main dining area)
  • Laundry (no dry cleaning available)
  • VAT at 14.5% and 2% Government Tourism Levy
  • All National Parks and Conservation Fees
Contact Us

Package Deals

For package deals that include accommodation, as well as other lodges, activities and annual event participation in and around Save Valley Conservancy.

Ready for Fothergill Island?

Excellent rating
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positiverecommends
We had a fantastic experience with Bryony and her team. Bryony is clearly knowledgeable about the region and guided us through our options and the Lake Kariba houseboat booking and choices. We had a fantastic time and I would thoroughly recommend using Heartveld.
Denise Jackson profile picture
Denise Jackson
23 days ago
positiverecommends
What an incredible holiday we just had in Zimbabwe. Thanks Bryony & Heartveld Adventures. Camp Mana was definitely the highlight for us.
Patrick Campbell profile picture
Patrick Campbell
43 days ago
positiverecommends
We have just had an amazing 6 nights on Tambarara houseboat organised by Heartveld Adventures. The boat was very comfortable and the staff were excellent. The captain, Reg, was very professional and helpful, the chef cooked delicious meals, the barman kept our drinks flowing, the cleaners left animals made from our towels on our beds at night and the guys on the tender boat were so good with the boys aged 3, 5, 7 and 9 showing them what to do and putting on worms, for us as well. Highly recommended.
Debbie Davies profile picture
Debbie Davies
421 days ago
positiverecommends
Good range of houseboats and friendly, helpful response
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Vicky Grant Bird
429 days ago
positiverecommends
The trip was all you could ask for when you want to relax and forget about the world. Captain Godrey and his team consisting Pilot, Chef Takesure and Silas made our stay comfortable and easy. The food was flavourful and filling. You couldn’t say no to Chef Takesure’s meals. Silas kept our cooler box ready every day because he knew we loved our drinks cold and first thing in the morning. Pilot and Captain Godfrey took us to amazing views, magical sunset cruises and helped me find all the crocodiles I was looking for. I totally recommend Heartveld Adventures for all your Kariba fantasies! ☀️⛴️🍹#February2025
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Ashleigh Chamboko
595 days ago
positiverecommends
Right from when I started researching the trip in November last year, Bryony has been an absolute star. Nothing was ever too much hassle, especially with the rigours of trying to effect payment then! Then the houseboat in Kariba! What an amazing trip we had on the Ponty, and once again Bryony organised transfers and things on the spot, awesome and a big thank you to you and Char, the Ponty was the highlight of our Zim Epic! I cannot recommend Bryony and Heartveld Adventures enough, was so good to meet you at Charara, Cheers and thanks again Glenn and Family.
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Glenn A Armstrong
741 days ago
positiverecommends
Yes I recommend Heartveld Adventures. Great customer service and quick responses
Tatenda Antony Mhene profile picture
Tatenda Antony Mhene
883 days ago
positiverecommends
Great service, nothing was too much trouble, quick replies and responses🤙
Wils Raubenheimer profile picture
Wils Raubenheimer
904 days ago
positiverecommends
Heartveld Adventures really goes the extra mile when it comes to customer service. They really think of everything that would be needed for a great holiday. We've been on Driftwood Houseboat twice and am going on the African Queen in September 24. Really is an amazing experience with amazing staff, very helpful and caring about your comfort and enjoyment. Thank you so much 💖
Magda Gillwald profile picture
Magda Gillwald
924 days ago
positiverecommends
Came across Heartveld Adventures blog by chance whilst trying to plan a holiday adventure in Zimbabwe.Offloaded my thoughts to Bryony, and a well sorted package with more than I asked for was presented.Stopped looking all over the internet for any possible deals, as this was the DEAL.If your intention is to go to Zimbabwe and enjoy its hidden treasures whilst accommodated in places you wouldn't have thought of and known existed, then save yourself the trouble, and get hold of Heartveld Adventures. Their service is what makes the country keeps going.Well done Bryony
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gadgetsnzawesome
1048 days ago
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